Increased Security Becomes Routine for Manitoba Politicians
Enhanced measures reflect rising concerns over threats and intimidation faced by public officials in recent years.
- Premier Wab Kinew and other Manitoba politicians now experience constant security presence due to growing safety concerns.
- Security at the Manitoba legislature has intensified over the last decade, including metal detectors, restricted access points, and vehicle checks.
- Incidents such as a 2021 attempt to drive a vehicle onto the legislature steps and threats at constituency offices have prompted further precautions.
- Politicians, including former Premier Kelvin Goertzen, report instances of public aggression, sometimes involving their families, at events and personal spaces.
- Experts warn that heightened security measures, while necessary, could reduce public accessibility to politicians, potentially harming democratic engagement.